pam pignataro

Leaving Home

One still-empty suitcase,
an open mouthed nestling
waiting to be fed.

He chooses what to take,
what to leave behind-
which portions of his life.

Zippered pockets on the sides-
each holds a different key
to new directions.

No mirror on the lid,
as old valises had-
will he remember to look back?

He finally begins to pack,
reluctantly, (I hope).
I cannot stay and watch

this condensing of his youth
in a single bag he’ll carry
far from home, and me.


Pam Pignataro is a nurse by profession, poet by passion, previous publications include "The Clarion Review", "Poesia", "Moonset", "Thick With Conviction", "Amaze", and "Ribbons."